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What is a solar tracker, and how does it affect system performance?

Unfortunately, not many resources do the best job of explaining what solar trackers are—so let us break it down.

If you’ve started considering whether a solar energy system is right for you, you’ve probably started researching the many parts that make up the system. For those looking, the term ‘solar energy system tracker’ has probably appeared more than a few times in your search, with many articles encouraging you to install one.

Unfortunately, not many resources do the best job of explaining what they are and how they work – so let us break it down.

What is a Solar Energy System Tracker?

A solar energy system tracker is a piece of technology added to your solar system to increase its efficiency by allowing the panels to rotate and track the sun. This allows you to increase your system’s output by as much as 50 percent in the summer and 20 percent in the winter. These trackers usually fall under two basic categories: single-axis trackers and dual axis trackers.

What is a Single Axis Tracker?

A single axis tracker allows your panels to rotate azimuthally from east to west to track the path of the sun daily. This tracker increases your electrical output by up to 27 to 32 percent and can improve the performance of your system, provided it is set up by a qualified engineer and is oriented properly.

What is a Dual Axis Tracker?

A dual axis tracker is a level above a single axis tracker in that it allows the panels to move both vertically and horizontally, meaning they can better orient themselves for energy production. With a dual axis tracker, energy output can be increased by as much as 35 to 40 percent. Again, this is provided that the tracker is set up by a qualified engineer who can orient the system for maximum efficiency.

Do I Need a Solar Energy System Tracker?

After reading all of this information about increased energy production, you’re probably wondering if a solar energy system tracker is right for you. If you’re investing in a small residential system, your system will likely be fine without one in terms of energy production. If you’re looking to have a large scale or commercial solar system, however, solar trackers make good financial sense as they can make the difference between producing energy and producing enough energy to turn a profit.

Interested in Learning More?

Looking to get a quote for a solar system, or looking to know more about solar energy system trackers? Connect with us through the form below and one of our experts will get back to you so you can start moving in a greener direction.